Album Review

Mario Bauzá's place as one of the key founders of Latin jazz was overlooked for decades, until he formed the exciting orchestra found on this Messidor CD. His 23-piece big band, along with a variety of singers, performs a full set of Bauza's originals, including the five movements of his Afro-Cuban jazz suite "Tanga." Victor Paz's lead trumpet drives the ensembles, and Paquito D'Rivera has a strong appearance sitting in on alto.